John Travolta pays tribute to "beautiful wife" Kelly Preston as she passes away, aged 57
She lost a two-year battle with breast cancer.
John Travolta has paid tribute to his late wife Kelly Preston, after she died aged 57 following a lengthy battle with breast cancer.
The actress was best known for her film roles in cult favourite comedies Mischief, Twins and Jerry Maguire, as well as 1989's The Experts, where she and her husband first met.
Since then, they have collaborated on several projects, including Battlefield Earth, Old Dogs and 2018's gang drama Gotti, based on the life of a New York City mobster.
Travolta said on Instagram: "It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer. She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many.
"My family and I will forever be grateful to her doctors and nurses at MD Anderson Cancer Centre, all the medical centres that have helped, as well as her many friends and loved ones who have been by her side.
"Kelly’s love and life will always be remembered. I will be taking some time to be there for my children who have lost their mother, so forgive me in advance if you don’t hear from us for a while. But please know that I will feel your outpouring of love in the weeks and months ahead as we heal."
Preston and Travolta had been married for more than 28 years, with three children between them: 20-year old Ella, 9-year-old Benjamin, as well as the late Jett Travolta, who died in 2009 at age 16.
Ella Travolta said on Instagram: "I have never met anyone as courageous, strong, beautiful and loving as you. Anyone who is lucky enough to have known you or to have ever been in your presence will agree that you have a glow and a light that never ceases to shine and that makes anyone around you feel instantly happy.
"Thank you for being there for me no matter what. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your help and thank you for making this world a better place. You have made life so beautiful and I know you will continue to do so always. I love you so much mama."
Preston had kept her fight with breast cancer private but had been undergoing medical treatment for some time, according to her representatives.
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Authors
David Craig is the Senior Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest and greatest scripted drama and comedy across television and streaming. Previously, he worked at Starburst Magazine, presented The Winter King Podcast for ITVX and studied Journalism at the University of Sheffield.
